ToBRFV is undoubtedly the main concern for Moroccan tomato growers. Until now, the only means of control for several seasons has been the drastic measure of uprooting plants. Growers are looking forward to seed breeders, tasked with the delicate mission of developing new resistant varieties. Many new varieties have indeed been launched. However, the transition to resistant varieties isn't easy, as growers fear that resistance may come at the expense of quality, a concern that came up repeatedly, especially during the 2024/2025 season.
Can resistance to ToBRFV go hand in hand with premium quality? Ahmed Belhacini, Fruity Product Specialist Manager for Africa and the Middle East at Syngenta, argues that quality issues should not be systematically attributed to the choice of new resistant varieties, and presents intermediate resistance as a reliable temporary option.
Belhacini explains, "Drawing reliable conclusions about the impact of resistance on quality will take several seasons of observation. However, I can say that breeders have made tremendous progress. Currently, companies offering resistant varieties are generally able to maintain their quality standards. It's important to remember that quality depends not only on the variety but also on technical processes, hygiene measures, and climatic conditions, which remain beyond control."
One way to reassure growers is to offer intermediate resistance to the virus, Belhacini adds. "Our strategy at Syngenta is to propose varieties with intermediate resistance to ToBRFV that guarantee optimal fruit quality, including high brix and flavor, as well as yields superior to certain conventional varieties, according to the results of our trials. Our varieties are renowned for their reliability, prioritizing superior fruit quality. We aim to maintain this quality while offering intermediate resistance, with the ultimate aim of achieving high resistance in the near future. We still recommend that producers remain vigilant by adopting appropriate prevention methods and specific cultivation practices to limit the risk of attacks."
The fifth edition of the Morocco Tomato Conference, held on May 21 in Agadir, provided an opportunity to meet with producers. Samia Ouardi, customer experience manager Africa & Middle East at Syngenta, says, "The MTC is an important event that brings together key industry players to discuss the key challenges facing the sector. We took advantage of this day to share our strategy with producers, which aims to introduce effective intermediate resistances without compromising on taste, color, high yields, or high brix levels."
Ouardi continues, "This is a project we launched with the Tomato Caravan, a traveling initiative that aims to bring the taste of Syngenta cherry tomatoes closer to those who bring it to life every day: producers, distributors, restaurateurs... and, of course, consumers. The MTC was a great opportunity for the Tomato Caravan to make a stop. Beyond promoting the variety, this caravan has a broader ambition: to reconnect the agricultural upstream with the culinary downstream. By visiting customers directly or attending industry events such as the Morocco Tomato Conference 2025, the Caravan creates a space for exchange around flavor, innovation, and local know-how."
"We see a positive dynamic for Moroccan tomatoes and their ecosystem, where our role is to be a sustainable partner for producers, a driving force in the search for resistant solutions, and an ambassador of taste at the service of consumers," she concludes.
For more information:
Ahmed Belhacini
Syngenta Vegetable Seeds Maroc
Email: [email protected]
Samia Ouardi
Tel: +212 660-349818
Email: [email protected]
www.syngenta.ma